This post was 3,000 words long. They all felt overly complicated and heavy and weird. I clicked delete. Then I just typed what we’re really feeling, complete with things we’ve never said out loud and even a few things we’ve never fully admitted to ourselves before.
The truth is that we love you guys. Like for real. Even for the tough love. We know you say it because you care (or hopefully you did at some point), and we want you to know we care right back. We want to do a good job. We want to do this with joy and excitement. We want to inspire you. We know this is an incredible way to have made a living and we are full of gratitude for the experience to have shared the last seven years of our lives with you guys online.
We would NEVER be here without you, and not a day goes by that we don’t know that. It’s why we asked for your feedback last week and read every last comment. We appreciate the honesty and the passion you guys have on the topic of making this blog great. And we agree with a lot of what was being said. We have been feeling off for a while – like we have lost our rhythm and we’re somehow missing the mark for ourselves and for you guys. We too miss the good old days when we did this for the love and were full of such obvious joy and spontaneity. This felt like a place we all hung out and it just doesn’t have that vibe anymore.
Over the years many amazing opportunities popped up for us. Things we never dreamed of doing in a million years, and things we’re incredibly grateful to have had the chance to experience. A book deal, curating paint picks with Benjamin Moore, a line sold at Target, a showhouse, etc. But in hindsight those things also made this feel a lot more like a business than a personal blog to many of you, and to us as well. We have actually ramped those down behind the scenes in an attempt to get back to our roots (we no longer do the BM color collection, the second book is mostly written, our products at Target have completed their run, and we finished the showhouse) but we never really made a big announcement about that – so it’s completely understandable that some of you might think we’ve moved on to those greener pastures and left the blog in the dust, so to speak. The reality is that our site propels the success of any outside project like a product or book, so we could never turn our backs on the blog and expect those items to continue to sell as well.
Not only have we felt this shift from “John and Sherry” to “Young House Love: The Brand”, but the blogosphere as a whole has become increasingly sponsored/corporate lately. We can see from the outside prospective as a reader, or even a fellow blogger, that it’s hard to read a blog post without suspecting some ulterior motive or money-making system behind it. Last week a few of you mentioned that we might need to keep giveaways around because they pay us well, which surprised us since they’re never something we accept payment for (we like to pass free things along to you as a thank you for reading).
Along with the whole business/brand thing that’s going on, and the side gigs that felt like they muddied the water for some of you, there are certainly other things we wish we had handled differently in hindsight. Just to name a few, there’s: being too defensive, over-explaining, letting things get in our heads and change our lighthearted approach, and the internal struggle between being transparent and oversharing personal details like a vacant new house without an alarm system (looking back we wish we’d handled our third house announcement differently). We know many of you felt insulted that we didn’t share more freely about that house, and we truly apologize.
Anyway, back to that whole “we’re sexy stumbling and you know it” thing. It’s endlessly frustrating to do a job that you love poorly, especially when it’s a blog baby that you’ve birthed yourself and nurtured for seven years. And especially when it’s such an amazing job that we once felt so inspired and joyful to wake up and do each day. What’s wrong with us? We know this is a dream job. We acknowledge it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity. We know most people who have built something like this would be more inspired than ever. It’s not that we lost the gratitude, I think it’s that we feel like we’ve fallen out of our groove. We feel like we’re letting you guys down repeatedly. It got to the point that every time we pressed “publish” we braced ourselves.
So in an attempt to stop stumbling around and feeling like we just can’t get it back, we’re taking a break. We don’t know exactly how long we’ll be stepping away, but our guess would be at least a month. We will certainly be exploring other options for supporting our family (something we mentioned we were considering back in April). We had that fiery blog-spark back when we had day jobs and did this as a hobby, so we think it could be a good change. We’ll also be taking a break on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook, but the blog will stay public so you guys can access the archives whenever you’d like.
Our internal struggle and the state of this blog is entirely of our making, and we completely own that. Please don’t get mad at anyone for being honest with their feedback last week or accuse them of sending us packing. We have been struggling with that “something is off” feeling for a while now, and after way too much denial and “we’ll turn it around” pep talks, we finally asked for your feedback because we truly wanted to hear what you were thinking. It was cathartic and helpful for us. It has allowed us to very clearly see that if we have any respect for this blog and our love of it, and for you guys and what you’d like to see, we need to take a break if we ever want any hope of getting back to that fun/real/spontaneous place it used to be when this was something we did for the love instead of the high stakes game of supporting a family.
In summary: we love you, we thank you, and we hope you understand.
Tamryn says
You guys are amazing… enjoy your break & little family. Lots of love from sunny South Africa xxx
Miriam says
Os he seguido en vuestro blog durante un par de años, vuestro trabajo y esfuerzo ha sido increíble, gracias por todo!
Corinne (Australia) says
I have read your blog almost every day for 7 years. Now I feel like I have finished reading a great book. I feel sad and don’t know what to read now! Thank you for the 7 years of entertainment and please hurry back because I will miss you :)
Maria says
I admire what you are doing….. enjoy your time off. I am sure we will be hearing from you sooner or later.. Thanks for been “real” and honest with your readers.
Kellie-Anne says
John and Sherry, couldn’t let this post go by without writing you my first comment :) yay!
Just wanted to remind you both how much of an inspiration you’ve been, I’ve done a few of your home improvement projects (which turned out AMAZING by the way), but I’ve mainly been inspired by your writing style, your cheerleader positivity and your living-within-your means attitude. I quit my full time job 2 years ago and had to make some unexpected changes to my husband’s and my lifestyle, you were there to help and keep things in perspective for me (tears forming as I write this, can’t believe I can feel so close to people I’ve never met in person! you know what I mean!) I’m on track with my career now, not chasing the big dollars anymore and am loving it.
I hope you still check your instagram account a little while you’re offline because I’m flying to the States in 3 weeks (I live in Brisbane, Australia) and one of my first stops will be to a Target to buy my own little piece of YHL, to compliment the book, I’ll be tagging you in my photo at the checkout :)
Thank you for everything you so fearlessly shared with us xxx
Catherine says
Me too! I’m going to the States from New Zealand in January and I’m crossing my fingers that there will still be YHL merch at Target.
Roxy says
I think I’m gonna cry… :P
Enjoy and come back soon, please!
xx
Natalie blackman says
Everyone deserves a holiday! Enjoy your family. Thank you for a wonderful blog, hope to see you guys back x
Tory H says
This blog is so wonderful, smart, creative and amazing! As an every-day reader since little House #1 I have LOVED every house and post and have implemented so many of your ideas in my own house. You guys feel like friends and I’ll miss you! I just wanted to say that I’ve never noticed a difference but if you’re feeling a difference that’s good enough for me! Have a good vacation and I can’t wait to hear more from you soon!
Anna Hamill says
Best of luck guys! If you think about it, most people want a change of career after 7 years (and many need it far before that!). Will miss you and hope to see you back, but also hope the distance gives you space to think about what’s next.
Camilla says
Taking a well deserved break is a great idea and I hope the whole family enjoys every moment. Don’t for a minute regret a thing; it’s hard raising a family and a business. I’ve found all your side projects, all well as the blog, both interesting and inspiring and I’m so pleased you got those opportunities and shared them. I, for one, have continued to enjoy this blog and will do so again when you come back.
xx
Erin says
Wow, not gonna lie and say I won’t miss you guys terribly. I check your site daily, but sometimes you just have to do what is best for you. It is the only life you get. I just wanted to say how many of your posts I have used in my own home or referenced for use later. I have loved the detail and explanations on why you choose what you did. Your information has been priceless. Thanks for all of the FANTASTIC information. I and so many others have truly appreciated it!!
Beth says
I will miss this daily dose of inspiration. You have transformed my home over the years. Totally understand the need for a sabbatical though. I hope that however you decide to support your family, you find the passion and spark you’re looking for.
JessiBee says
Wow. You obviously don’t need another comment but I’ll throw my hat in the ring anyway. I say good decision. I’ve been reading your blog since it was This Young House and I have loved following along with your projects and family. You have made every reader genuinely feel like your friend and that is something to be so proud of. Your blog is such a valuable resource…from the big DIYs to the little makeovers. I even went back and pinned your post on the cloth diapers just today before I read this! You have poured so much energy and enthusiasm and creativity into not only this blog but the other opportunities you took on. You’ve put yourselves and your lives out there in a way that most other jobs do not require, and yeah, it’s a dream job but it just makes it that much harder to separate, turn off and, I imagine, just plain feel normal. In such a short span of years you have grown this amazing blog, had two adorable children, moved house twice and done more extensive DIY than most if us will ever do. It’s a credit to you both that you didn’t burn out long ago. I certainly would have. You need a break. You deserve a break. You invited us all along for the ride but you don’t owe anyone anything. You can do whatever you want. I wish you all nothing but good things. You’ll always be my blog peeps. Hugs!
Catherine says
I’m really really sad… I hope that this doesn’t become permanent. I’ve been reading your blog since the beginning and will miss it and you guys being part of my life!
But I can understand why you’re doing this and that you guys need space and your lives back.
No blog will ever be MORE important than family and love. Take your time, make the right choice for YOU. I’ll be disappointed if it’s the end for Young House Love but change is inevitable.
Jeremiah 29:11 – For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
Plavi says
Will miss reading your blog. I stumbled upon your blog almost 4 years back when I was searching for DIY wedding ideas and have been hooked since. Although I never really commented on your blog, baring once when I wish on your anniversary I think! Its a starnge feeling because I never thought I will get emotional about this blog going on a break. Unknowingly because very attached. Hope you guys are back soon.
Emily K says
I had no idea you had asked these questions last week- I hope other’s comments didn’t make you feel like you were doing a good job. We’re here because we enjoy you. Praying that this time away helps give you clarity, and rest! Don’t even worry about any of the readers- this is your life and your time. You guys rock.
Emily K says
*weren’t doing a great job..
Lindsey B says
I just wanted to say THANK YOU to the both of you for being such an inspiration to me to start being crafty again! We recently just sold our starter house and I was able to take on so many projects that I never dreamt of doing myself to get it ready to sell entirely thanks to discovering your blog. I only wish I had found you sooner!
I hope that you really enjoy the time away, but I can’t say that I won’t be selfish by hoping for a quick return. I will not only miss you’re incredible advice and inspiring ideas, but also seeing the Clara, Teddy, and Burger updates. Those are the heart of what you share with us and what really make your blog so special and enjoyable to read (especially to someone who has two little ones very close in age).
Wishing you clearer heads and happy hearts during your “sabbatical”
Margo says
John and Sherry, You know people love your blog, and you are wonderful people to let us into your lives like you have. I’ve been following you for a few years now, but recently went back to the beginning and started reading from your first post. Your ideas are inspired, and really so easy to adopt, it’s like “why didn’t I think of that?” Perhaps by the time you are ready to come back, I’ll be caught up to current events. I’m looking forward to it. take care, friends.
Anna says
Enjoy the break. You definitely deserve it! Thank you for all the inspirational posts (from home re-do’s to raising kids!).
You will definitely be missed (your posts are always the first thing I read in the morning, due to the time difference between USA and South Africa).
Hugs your kids. Hugs your significant other. Hug Burger. And embrace your “freedom” from social media!
We will be here waiting until you’re ready to come back :)
Jo says
I thought you were doing a great job. I’ve always loved your blog and it’s ethos. I will miss it very much. I’ve always understood that you guys are the ones who set your boundaries, and you do it because it’s your life. I’m just grateful for how much you’ve been willing to share with us over the years. It’s a real gift that you’ve let us into your lives. Thank you. We love you back. I mean it (I’m crying a little).
Thank you.
Nicky says
You know that slow-motion movie moment when the good guy goes ‘Nooooooo!’ when something bad happens? This feels like one of those moments, only it’s me screaming internally since I am reading this at work. I did not follow the discussion last week as I didn’t feel like I had anything to offer. Now I kind of regret it because maybe one more positive reaction might have made you feel differently, I don’t know… To be honest, when I started reading the first few lines, I feared that this was the moment you would announce that you were quitting so in a way I felt relieved to read that you were taking a break. But still, I feel like this is getting to me more than it should. I absolutely LOVE your blog to pieces and I don’t follow any other blog this religiously, although I am not a frequent commenter. I did not feel as if the quality of your blog posts were not good or anything, I still like them a lot. But I guess you guys feel differently.
If you feel like taking a sabbatical will be beneficial for yourselves or the blog, please do so. My only fear is that in that time, you might consider completely quitting… If you would, know that there is 1 reader in Belgium that will miss you every single day… It would feel as if a part of my daily life is missing. That sounds dramatically but that is truly how I feel…
jenn says
I echo so many of the positive sentiments here. I have only been reading your blog for about a year, but I have also been reading your archives from the beginning and I have enjoyed seeing how the blog has matured. I have wondered how you could keep up the pace, so I completely understand the break. I find I have trusted your judgement and appreciate your honesty and have discovered a world of vendors that I did not know existed! Milk paint is in my future! The ads on your site are not invasive, the design keeps them unobtrusive. In short, you both are good at this and I hope you do not disappear from the blogosphere!
Selena says
I admire your honesty about your own burnout. It would be difficult to write five, exciting, motivating blog posts every week. I have learned things from reading your blog such as concrete countertops and ikat fabrics that make me think of you every time I see either of these. And Sherry’s hem tape!! So in making a decision about what to do, do what you love and what is good for your family. Success will follow. Your honesty and gratitude are refreshing. I’ve always admired your responses to posts which would have insulted me greatly. Somehow, you’ve kept your cool and would post a nice response. I know you’ve heard the saying, “You can please some of the people some of the time but you can’t please all of the people all of the time.” This is true. So if you decide to continue blogging- just write. You don’t have to justify every move…OR answer every comment. There. I said it! The Pioneer Woman surely doesn’t. Keep some mystery about your life. You need not answer every question that is asked such as when the next baby is coming, etc. I felt very sorry for you when you were expecting Teddy, Sherry, and you were chastised for not telling it earlier. Those things are personal and you can share, if you share, when you want to share. Some will be fans of this approach and others will not. Do what feels right for you and ignore the rest. I truly hope you’ll be back but on a more limited basis. What would I like to see? Fewer words, as little justification as possible and maybe one to three posts per week. Rest up and take a break that you don’t have to write a blog about!
Karleefuchs says
You will be very missed. But I think your move is brave and understood by many. 2 1/2 years ago our claire fell off of the garage roof becoming paralyzed from the waist down. Longs story kept short is that my sewing had become very popular with the help of Becky Higgins or great friend and creater of project life. My sewing company had necome very difficult over the gain in popularity and I was becoming completely warn down and because of some negative people and my frustration I was heading to quitting. Claire had her accident and I was forced to stop dead in my tracks for several months. When I thought I was ready I wasnt… it turned out I needed to change gears and work another thing fom the ground up. I have learned tons about myself in tje last few years about happiness and family and to respect what we love in all areas. Even work. You both do that. I do hope you come back but only if you want amd if you are ready. You already know that your family and friends are most important and I if anyone “get it”. You have both done an amazing job and will continue to do so. I never thought I could find blessing in having such an accident with my girl but crazy enough thet blessings are all around. Hugs, KARLEE FUCHS And CLAIRE DEAN
Julia @ Hooked on Houses says
I’ve got a HUGE amount of respect for you guys. You really set a high standard for blogging for the rest of us. As someone who started around the same time you did and has been reading from the beginning, I’ve been in awe of everything you have achieved over the years and have loved reading every post. Enjoy your break — it’s well deserved. But I miss you already! xo
Crystal @MyBlissfulSpace says
I’ve been feeling “off” with my MUCH smaller (not profitable) blog, so I can totally relate. I think it comes with the overall busyness of life topped with project after project, and keeping up with things to write about. Enjoy your break and we’ll all look forward to your return!
michelle says
I’ve been reading for 6+ years and this is the first comment I’ve left I think. I think it’s a double edged sword because comments I’m sure drive your passion but also seemed to have squashed it. I just wanted you to know that this reader has cheered you on every step of the andand have loved every new direction taken on the blog. When you stopped doing reader redesigns, I initially missed it but always loved what you chose instead. I have two kids myself so I’ve always been silently wondering where you possibly keep up the drive. I’m appreciative that you did for this long! Just know that this reader doesn’t need some aggressive blog schedule but would love to see some stream of new ideas from you guys… Even once a month!!!
Janelle says
I’m going to think of this as a delayed start, mini-maternity leave. Haha. You deserve a nice, long break to recharge. You have so many loyal readers who love what you post because of the heart you put into it. It’s all about how you make design/renovations approachable and share your life with us. You seem like the most down-to-earth people, and in a blogosphere which sometimes feels a bit “stepford-y” — you stand out in the BEST way. XO
Zoe Royall says
Completely agree with the sentiment that it is YOUR business, YOUR brand, YOUR life. I think it is so admirable that you guys request feedback as much as you do, but maybe that’s your achilles heel as well. This idea that your readers are owed something because they come to your blog, and that results in SOME (but not a CRAZY amount of) advertising dollars, is obscene. If this is in fact a business the job is to maintain readers to the point of sustainability and some organic growth. It is absolutely NOT to try to please everyone. If you want to do surveys to get a sense of what is working and what is not, great, but the personal feedback that you guys absorbed on a daily basis was way too much, IMHO (even though I’m giving you personal feedback now…hypocrite!). Also, it feels like bloggers get in a trap/burned out when the blog is the business, instead of the business is the business and the blog is the marketing arm of the business. Allowing the blog and interactive piece of the community to be one step removed from your actual business feels more sustainable.
Adriane says
You guys are the first blog I read in the morning. Love everything you do and your outlook on life. Please come back soon!
Vee says
I have been reading your blog for about two years all the way from South Africa and have always loved reading your posts – it felt like a treat among so many other boring emails ;) Know that your updates will be dearly missed!!! I wish you a magical break/new phase – may you be blessed with deep joy, abundant success, powerful health, amazing family time, showers of creativity, and tons and tons of Love! Enjoy the precious time with your gorgeous family as well as this new adventure of creating a different future for yourselves. You guys totally rock and I know that will never change! With fondest regards and best wishes <3
Lotte says
Love that you are listening to your inner feelings and taking a step back to regroup:-).
My little advise to you is to remember – not to think to much future and just be in the moments. Soon enough a new inspiring idea will pop up that you will want to follow, i´m sure.
Enjoy your time off and the time with your 2 kids
Claire @ Claire K Creations says
Understand? If anyone deserves a break it’s you guys. You have an amazing thing here and at the end of the day it’s your blog and you should do with it what you want. I hope you have the most wonderful time off and enjoy the time with those gorgeous kiddos. This 5-year fan will be back when you are. In the meantime… back to your painting tips as we paint our way around the house. Thank you for being such an inspiration.
When I started reading this post I said to my husband ‘oh my god I think John and Sherry are stopping blogging… I can’t read this!’ and he knew what I was talking about even though we’re all the way ‘down under.’
Can’t wait to see the next chapter of John and Sherry xxx
Susan Eisert says
All the best to your great family! I hope you come back because I have loved/ learned so much.
Thanks for all your hard work!
Nikki says
You guys deserve a break. I honestly can’t imagine being in your shoes. Having a preschooler and a newborn/new baby is hard enough, add house renovations to it and it’s another story. Yes, we all have to work but for most people work is just that, work. For you it’s your life. Your home. Your family. Where is the separation? Your every day revolves not only on your family depending you but all of your blog followers depending you. That’s a lot of weight to carry, day in and day out.
Don’t get me wrong, you guys have rocked it. You’re and inspiration and I’m super proud to share our home city with you. But you’re also human, you have a family and they come first. We come second. Take a break. We’ll be here when you feel ready to return. ??
Ginni says
Oh no!! Please take a break but please, please, please come back :-))
Nikki says
Lots of spelling errors in my comment above! I’m sorry. And the last to should be exclamation points not question marks.
Amy Dunham a says
I feel pathetic that I just cried in sadness over this. I will miss you guys this month but I’m trying to be understanding :(
AJ says
I am not even a big fan of diy but I really really love reading your blog for the wonderful writing and honest voice. I never noticed a drop in quality. I would be more than happy with one post a week, you are still the best blog around. Enjoy your break. Hope you come back refreshed!
Kristin says
Enjoy your break! Sad not to follow you everyday but sometimes you need to walk away from something. I have truly enjoyed your blog over the past 5 years and hope to follow you if you come back. I love how you were so attentive to your readers, answering comments or Facebook questions but maybe it all got to be too much. And I read some negative comments on the last post…jeesh…people are selfish and rude! Haters gonna hate..you’ve got to do what’s best for you.
Lauren Hackney says
My husband and I have been so inspired by you guys, wish we could have you over for dinner and show you the things we’ve done because of y’all! And you’ve continued the inspiration with this post– thank you for the honestly and for being willing to take a break. So many of us run run run and forget to enjoy what we’re doing. Wishing you guys the best and hope you have a wonderful break! You’ll be missed but are still just as much an inspiration for it!
Colleen says
As much as I completely understand your need to take a break and regroup, I selfishly wish it weren’t so. I stumbled onto your blog a couple of years ago and have devoured each post as it arrived in my inbox. There’s a refreshing honesty and transparency about you both that really grabbed me and it’s been wonderful to feel involved in your journeys. Thankyou John, Sherry, Clara and Teddy for the education, laughs, tips and (one sided) conversations. I look forward to your return, whenever you feel you are ready.
Lindsay says
What a courageous decision. You will be greatly missed, hopefully for not too long. But, I think too often people don’t take that step back and think about what makes them happy. Life is too short, you have to live yours in the way that is right for you. May these next steps be easy on you, I always say it is hard work and tough choices that make you happy, and they are worth it.
Robyn says
Wow……yours is the second blog in two weeks that has brought to my attention that the blogging world is a changing …..on that note I say thank you for all the years of work you have put into bringing the love to us. Where ever you go whatever you do may it bring you love, peace & great success.????
Jennifer says
I hope you guys enjoy your break and refresh! Just make sure you come back!!!! I love your bo
Kelcey says
John & Sherdog! I don’t typically read (or write) comments so I was unaware of the feedback you referenced until just now. I understand the criticism and I do skim more of your posts than I used to, but not because I think they are not good. When you started this blog you were in a position more similar to my own ( a 20-something designer with big eyes and no money to make designs happen through straight purchases). I love how your DIYs help to affordably achieve looks I could never afford. I just felt like the blog has become less relevant to me personally because you have grown up ( buying bigger houses, making larger investments in furniture & tools/equipment, handling construction) and naturally, your focus has shifted from the diy on the cheap beginnings of the blog. I don’t blame you, and I don’t think this is a bad thing! I think your audience may just start to shift. I personally skim through and mentally bookmark posts for years in the future when I grow into that position and they become more relevant to me! I don’t think you should regress your personal experience just to keep your blog in a time warp, you’ve gotta do what youve gotta do to stay true to yourself and your experiences. If you do want to maintain your current audience, I would appreciate keeping the super long technical construction stuff to once-twice a week, and offer shorter, easier to knock out projects more frequently. Take a break and think about it, I can’t wait to see what’s next!
Michelle says
“We were on a break!”
I’ll be here when you get back :)
Jessica says
I do love you guys and totally understand. I am taking a similar step in my own life and so wish you THE BEST in making the right choices for you and your family.
Natalie says
I honestly never noticed a difference at all!! You guys are awesome. I never really liked the giveaway posts as I felt the seemed liked ads but that’s because I live outside the U.S, and I thought they seemed like a lot of work for you to organize, I would rather less of them and more blog posts.
We all love you and feel like family, love seeing you life through instagram!
This is a sad day :( :(
Lynn Edwards says
While I completely understand, my brain is saying “noooooooooo!” Every time I see Young House Love in my inbox, I get excited. While I am a fairly new follower, (a year or so), I look forward eagerly to your posts and to see what’s new. Go, go on and take a break. We all need that from time to time, but please, please, please come back to us!